National panic makes bad policy, false prisoners

When the Jamaica Labour Party introduced universal health care, the policy made no exception.

Immediately, it became a sort of entitlement - free to everyone, rich or poor, young and old. Jamaicans living overseas are able to come here home and avail themselves to high-quality health care free of cost and at the expense of taxpayers. And here is an example of a typical government handout. This is the kind of action that confirms the adage: National panic makes bad policy and false prisoners.

The People's National Party promised to revisit the policy of 'free health care' but may not have the courage, determination or the will to effect any changes.

Regardless, the current economic climate, particularly the uncertainty of an International Monetary Fund agreement any time soon, may necessitate 'outsourcing' the management of the public health-care system.

Privatising national health care is a suggestion based on the 'flawed' method of 'scheduling appointments' and the frustrations many patients have encountered when the clerks are unable to find their medical records.

Furthermore, with limited revenue, prescriptions are not filled; X-rays not done; filing cabinets are overflowing; doctors and nurses overworked; and the technology outdated.